Education Support

Education and Community Engagement programs are core to the Des Moines Performing Arts' mission as a non-profit performing arts organization. In fact, more than 55,000 people of all ages benefit from the Des Moines Performing Arts' comprehensive education program each year. You can make these experiences possible by making a gift through the Willis Lexus Drive for Kids – every dollar you donate will be generously matched by Willis Lexus. Find out more!

More than 53,000 students and educators attend curriculum-connected school matinee performances at Des Moines Performing Arts through the Applause Series annually - at a cost of only $1 per student. In addition, Des Moines Performing Arts sends teaching artists into the schools to provide hands-on workshops and residencies in special opportunities that engage students directly in the creative process. And, through its partnership with the John F. Kennedy Center, Des Moines Performing Arts provides teachers with in-depth professional development on how to use the arts in their classrooms to better impact student learning.

Guest lectures, Q&As with company members, and other unique opportunities invite audience members to explore the inner workings of the performance. Des Moines Performing Arts also leverages its reputation of bringing the best of Broadway, dance, and the performing arts to Des Moines to provide local artists with invaluable training opportunities. Master classes, workshops, and summer camps give aspiring artists the chance to increase their skills by working directly with those who know what it takes to succeed on the professional stage.

Des Moines Performing Arts is a private 501 (C) (3) not-for-profit corporation presenting the performing arts to Iowa and the surrounding states. It is the presenter of major Broadway and educational touring companies, performers and groups, and is the performing home of many local and regional groups, including the Des Moines Symphony. Events, dates, times, performers and prices subject to change without notice.